I recently traveled with my husband and dog to a good friend's childhood home. This home, built in 1962 has changed little over the decades offering us a chance to step back in time.

The weather forecast was for rain, yet the sun shone.

We enjoyed a happy lunchtime conversation as we ate our friend's risotto and salad accompanied by the applesauce I had made.

We rode in an off-road noisy vehicle, requiring two of our party to ride in the truck's bed with the dog, seeing more of the Blue Ridge mountains.

We let our dog loose to wander off leash as we continued our conversation along the river's edge. Turning back toward the homestead, I read the above sign posted beside paddle boats docked at the pond. In that simple bit of instruction, I heard a personal call to be gentle in my musings and to reflect on what it might mean to clean daily. I knew I could be gentler than I had that morning as I had considered my life. And how do I clean my spiritual home? All of the above were rare experiences--refreshing to share with my husband, dog, old friend and a newer friend. I am grateful for friends, invitations, and signs to guide me and to remind me of my responsibilities.

I just finished reading Dan's blog over at toucanic.net where the topic was loving and purity. It occurs to me that purifying ourselves is another way of talking about cleaning daily, which allows us then to love more deeply, being gentle with ourselves and others, no matter the situation.
Love this and your comments on the sign and your visit. Good food for thought.

Reply

Jonathan D. Lauer

9/27/2011 03:55:38 am

Way to capture the memories of a great visit and a day of significant conversation.